Why Thrift Stores Are The Perfect Place To Look For A Nursery Essential

There's lots to do when preparing for the arrival of a new little bundle of joy. If you're as obsessed with home decor as the rest of us, designing your baby's nursery might be one of the most fun items on that to-do list.

Online retailers and big box stores will stock all the items you need for a baby's first room. But don't forget to check out thrift stores for a rocking chair. There's a bit of an oversupply and under-demand for rocking chairs at secondhand shops — they're commonly donated but less commonly snatched up by the average thrifter who doesn't need it for their newborn. This lack of demand means you can probably land one for a steal. In addition to helping you soak in snuggles and ease a babe to bed, a thrifted rocking chair can be a striking and one-of-a-kind addition to a nursery of any style.

Furniture prices are on the rise, so scoring a great deal on a nursery essential will be a great way to help you stick to your budget as you build out the baby's room. Plus, a rocking chair can be versatile, adding character to a room no matter your style — even if you're keeping the nursery gender neutral.

Tend toward modern design? Search secondhand shops for sleek gliders or minimalist Scandinavian-style chairs that sit low to the ground. Going for a more vintage feel? Keep your eyes out for antique chairs made from rich, gorgeous wood. Want an easy-breezy vibe? Look for wicker rocking chairs that could have sat out on the veranda in their previous life. Whatever you choose, it's easy to elevate the rocking chair's look to fit in with the theme of your nursery. Consider adding a fresh varnish or tossing a decorative and cozy throw blanket over it. Depending on the style, you may be able to make it your own by engraving the baby's name into it.

One last note before you shop — keep safety in mind. Remember that furniture made or painted before 1978 may contain lead. You can get a lead testing kit at your local hardware store if you're concerned about your chair. Also, some styles of rocking chairs have spokes rather than solid backs. Make sure young kids are always supervised around this type of chair to avoid instances of getting stuck.